As direct flights from Puerto Rico to Connecticut are re-established, the state is ramping up its efforts to help people who may be relocating from the ravaged territory.
Some 250,000 Connecticut residents have ties to the island, and many are expected to welcome relatives who are coping with power outages and a lack of clean water on the island.
Governor Dannel Malloy said the state hopes to make contact with people as they arrive.
“Over the past several days my administration has actively been making preparations to ensure that anyone who may need services on the flight will receive those services," he said. "Volunteers from United Way, Red Cross and the Salvation Army will be on site to help those in need, along with bilingual state troopers who can answer any questions people might have, in addition to the signage that will be throughout the airport.”
Malloy urged anyone who needs help with housing, health care, or other urgent needs to call 211 for help. The helpline has added a prompt which will take callers to the front of the line to receive help in either Spanish or English if they are dealing with issues related to a relocation from Puerto Rico.
"So far they relate to primarily to housing, and basic needs like food and clothing," said Rick Porth of United Way. "But also there are concerns related to FEMA, individual assistance eligibility, help with food stamps or other types of benefits, and some concerns about older adults who may be coming here from Puerto Rico and how to make sure to take care of their needs."
Porth said United Way also has a wide range of assistance and resources on its website.
This story is part of “The Island Next Door,” WNPR’s reporting project about Puerto Rico and Connecticut after Hurricane Maria.
